Raigad Fort
Located : Raigad, Maharashtra
Location and Overview
- Located in the Sahyadri mountain range.
- About 140 km southwest of Pune and 170 km from Mumbai.
- Elevation: 820 meters above sea level.
- Known for its historical significance and panoramic views.
- Popular trekking destination with rugged terrain and dense forests.
Historical Significance
- Known as the “Gibraltar of the East.”
- Capital of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
- Site of Shivaji’s coronation in 1674.
- Central to Shivaji’s administration and the Maratha resistance against the Mughal Empire.
- Houses the samadhi (memorial) of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Architectural Features
- Main entrance: The imposing Maha Darwaja.
- Key structures: Queen’s Quarters (Rani Vasa), Darbar Hall (public court), and Balekilla (citadel).
- Includes functional water tanks and reservoirs.
- Notable feature: Hirkani Buruj, a cliffside tower named after the brave woman Hirkani.
- Steep climbs and massive walls showcase Maratha architecture.
Accessing Raigad Fort
- Accessible by road from Pune and Mumbai.
- Base village: Pachad.
- Trek difficulty: Moderate to difficult with steep climbs.
- Ropeway service available for easier access to the top.
Visiting Hours
- Open to visitors: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: November to February (cool weather for trekking).
- Monsoon season (June to September) offers lush greenery but slippery trails.
